Entertainment News

Michael Douglas Gets Role In Marvel's Ant-Man

Michael Douglas is to take on the role of scientist Hank Pym in the new Disney-Marvel superhero film Ant-Man.

Pym is the creator of technology that can shrink humans to the size of an insect.

Anchorman star Paul Rudd will play Scott Lang, the alter-ego of the diminutive Marvel superhero.

Pym's character first appeared in the 27th issue of the Marvel Comics series Tales To Astonish in January 1962.

Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, said in a statement posted on Marvel.com: "We knew we needed an actor capable of bringing the weight and stature to the role that the character deserves.

"We felt incredibly relieved when Michael Douglas agreed to step into the part with the charm and fortitude he brings to every character he inhabits, and couldn't be more excited to see what he will do to bring Hank Pym to life."

Disney's foray in bringing Marvel's superhero universe to the big screen has proved to be a lucrative choice, with films such as Avengers and Iron Man 3 crossing the $1bn mark at the worldwide box office.

Douglas, who picked up a Golden Globe award on Sunday for his turn as Liberace in Behind The Candelabra, is taking a rare step into the world of big-budget franchise action films.

The plot for Ant-Man is being kept firmly under wraps.

The film will be directed by the British director of Shaun Of The Dead and Hot Fuzz, Edgar Wright.